What Is Vacation Bonus in Mexico?

By Alice Nichols

Vacation Bonus in Mexico: Understanding the Law and Your Rights

If you are planning to work in Mexico, it is essential to know about the vacation bonus or aguinaldo. This is a mandatory benefit that every employee is entitled to receive. In this article, we will discuss what the vacation bonus in Mexico is, who is eligible for it, how it is calculated, and when it is paid.

What Is Vacation Bonus?

The vacation bonus, also known as aguinaldo or Christmas bonus, is an annual benefit that employees receive in Mexico. It is a legal requirement under Mexican labor law, and every employer must pay their employees this benefit before December 20th of each year.

Who Is Eligible for Vacation Bonus?

All employees who work in Mexico are entitled to receive the vacation bonus regardless of their nationality or type of employment contract. This includes full-time and part-time employees, as well as temporary and permanent staff.

How Is Vacation Bonus Calculated?

The vacation bonus amount depends on the employee’s base salary and length of service. The law stipulates that the minimum amount payable should be equivalent to 15 days’ wages. However, some companies may offer more than this minimum amount.

To calculate your vacation bonus in Mexico, you need to multiply your daily wage by 15 (the number of days stipulated by law). For example, if your daily wage is $500 pesos, your vacation bonus would be $7,500 pesos ($500 x 15).

When Is Vacation Bonus Paid?

The law requires employers to pay the vacation bonus no later than December 20th of each year. Some employers may choose to pay earlier than this date or offer installment payments throughout the year.

It’s important to note that if you resign from your job before December 20th, you are still entitled to receive your vacation bonus. However, if you are terminated for cause, you may not be eligible for this benefit.

Conclusion

In summary, the vacation bonus is a mandatory benefit that every employee in Mexico is entitled to receive. It is calculated based on the employee’s base salary and length of service and must be paid before December 20th of each year. As an employee in Mexico, it’s essential to know your rights and ensure that your employer complies with labor laws.